1 person found this report helpful
Easiest hike we’ve been on so far. Very well groomed wide path, fairly flat long stretches. A couple rocky patches but nothing major. Hardly any elevation gain or loss. Super awesome suspension bridge that the kids thought was really cool. Trees were huge. Kids are 10 and 4
9 people found this report helpful
I hiked this trail today (Oct 19,2021) because I had read how easy it is.
But for anybody with balance issues, the steps are scary, and the rocks on the trail are somewhat hazardous. I tripped on a rock and I fell and sprained my wrist even though I had trekking poles. So unless you have great balance, be aware that it might be a bit much. It is certainly beautiful.
1 person found this report helpful
My Dad, and me (9) Loved this hike. All along the walk there are fun things to look at and do like: climbing over rivers on fallen logs, going down a smooth log as a slide, and best of all going over a suspension bridge! After the bridge there is a sign that says "active beehive 1/2 mile ahead" We did not hear, or see a bee nest/hive. It is one of my favorite hikes because, there is so much too explore and do! This hike is especially good for a cloudy day, when you don't need to worry about views. Lots of fall colors beginning here.
13 people found this report helpful
Started the day at the Ohanepecosh campground day use area, where I hiked the loop counter clockwise. I immediately spotted some ghost plants and was hoping to have a good mushroom day. Well, it’s a little early for mushrooms, but still a lovely hike. The falls are a worthy destination and the trail itself is a real treat. I saw 2 or 3 groups on each half of the loop. Long stretches of quiet. Kudos to the people who designed this trail. The trail takes you through the forest that feels magical with the sun shining through the tree tops and golden pine needles showering down with a little breeze.
Next stop was Grove of the Patriarchs. Just when I was thinking I didn’t like this crowded trail, I had a quiet moment with the big trees and decided it was worth the stop. It’s sad that there are only a few left, but the big trees are quite a sight.
Last stop was Paradise. I had to park in the overflow lot which put me right in front of the Nisqually Vista Loop. This is a sweet little trail that must be full of flowers earlier in the summer. I saw one hoary marmot that looks like it hasn’t missed any meals lately. Not the slightest bit shy, and very kindly stuck around for a long photo shoot. Other wildlife included a trio of camp robbers and a pond full of tadpoles. Plenty of blueberries if you haven’t had your fill yet.